Poison Ivy is basically the name of a plant found mainly in North America. The allergic reaction caused by this plant, also sometimes known as Poison Oak, is also referred to as Poison Ivy. It is basically a form of contact allergic dermatitis, which means an allergy caused due to contact with the agent that causes the allergy, which in this case happens to be a plant. Kids are more prone to this allergy, and while there are many different kinds of treatments to cure Poison Ivy, it is believed that prevention is the best, as the allergy can be quite irritating.
Since the plants are very common all over North America and such allergies are frequent, it is very important to be aware of some home remedies for poison ivy, so that it can be treated as soon as possible without any risks. Usually, poison ivy starts with redness and severe itching, which may be followed by blisters and worsening irritation. Sometimes, rashes also start to develop around the affected area.
One of the most instant home remedies for poison ivy, which helps to reduce the itch and the irritation, is sprinkling of vinegar over the affected area. Scratching the affected area when you feel the urge to do so will only worsen the condition, so it’s best to get relief by using vinegar.
Also, you can rub the inside of a banana peel on the affected area to soothe the irritation. This is a common trick for curing a lot of allergies and skin problems.
When bathing, warm the water a little and add some oatmeal while doing so, along with a little amount of baking soda. This water will help to reduce the redness and the irritation, and will start to heal the blisters very well. Some people actually apply the oatmeal water on the affected area and leave it there for some time, so that it hardens as it starts to dry. After that, you can remove it, and you will feel instant relief.
Another important one out of all home remedies for poison ivy is the application of Aloe Vera. Sunburns and heat can often worsen the state of an already existent skin problem. To avoid that, keep applying Aloe Vera oil or gel on a regular basis to the affected area. It will not only prevent further damage, but will soothe the irritation and will aid in fast healing.
Make sure that you are not using any kind of chemical based cosmetic products over the affected area, as it may cause the itching to increase. Besides, your skin might react differently to the chemicals under such circumstances and this can even cause permanent side effects. Hence, it is best to leave the area clean and untouched till it heals completely.
Last, but not the least, you must definitely try a very interesting home remedy. This one involves you pouring cold coffee over the affected area to reduce the itching. Coffee is anti-inflammatory, so it will prove to be very soothing. Just use the leftover coffee in a cup, or make black coffee and allow it to cool so that you can pour it over the blisters.
Read more Home Remedies for Poison Ivy. Also know useful Home Remedies for Beauty.
